Buyer- Direct Materials
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About The Position
Ascend is currently searching for a strategic sourcing Buyer to join the downtown Houston office's Direct Materials Procurement team, concentrated on commercial and supply chain-focused duties. This position will be responsible for implementing sourcing strategies for key raw materials—including critical chemicals, catalysts, and precious metals—that are essential to Ascend's global manufacturing operations. The Buyer plays a key role in ensuring continuous supply, optimizing cost, and supporting the seamless execution of procurement operations. This individual manages all aspects of the Procure-to-Pay (P2P) process for assigned categories, including vendor onboarding, master data updates, pricing maintenance, price variance analysis, and cost control. The role also includes ownership of inventory optimization, supporting working capital objectives through well-informed stockholding recommendations. The Buyer works closely with Category Managers to ensure transactional execution aligns with broader sourcing strategies and evolving commercial priorities. When supply disruptions occur, the Buyer is expected to lead troubleshooting efforts, coordinate cross-functional response, and drive resolution with urgency and accountability—while escalating and aligning with Category Managers where strategic decisions or supplier negotiations are involved. The Buyer also has hands-on ownership of precious metals management, including full coordination of reclaim activities, inventory tracking, lease administration, and accurate recordkeeping in collaboration with suppliers, refiners, and internal Finance teams. This role offers a unique opportunity to gain cross-functional exposure and contribute meaningfully to both the strategic and operational performance of Ascend's Direct Materials organization. Note this role is ideal for a rising commercial talent seeking to build a long-term career in the chemical industry. Join a high-performing procurement organization with a strong track record of career progression, market leadership, and impactful strategic work.
